Massive amounts of paperwork are pretty much a part of any school year. There is nothing we can do about it. Until we get to the point where all of our school are running everything digitally than it is something we are all going to have to manage. So how do we tackle all that comes spewing out of the kids backpacks everyday...

​1) Refuse

2) Record Dates/Times/Important info....Pitch it

Don't put important info on the fridge. Write it down

Use the "Notes" section of your phone to keep schedules

​3) Be Prepared

Have a simple system in place that you can build from if needed.

Don't spend too much time worrying about making it look nice (label maker?)

Keep things vertical

Do what works for you

Our "command center" counter. File box, homework folder, schedule.

4) Designate a place for everything

file box

pocket folder

schedules etc.

​anticipate what you think you will need

label maker???

5) Have a plan/system in place for all of the papers

where does homework go?

where do important papers go

The Completed Work File​​

THE FILE BOX

Here is a close-up of our file box. The main files include school directories, general school information, as well as one file for each child. In each child's file there are folders sections have a file which includes their class/teacher notes, computer logins, the Completed Work file and any other important info. We also have a file for Medical Receipts and one for the Pup.

If you don't have space for a file box on your counter the Accordian file is another great option. You can stash it in a cabinet or drawer. Its also great for people that have kids with any special needs that require meetings/extra doctor appointments. If all of your important info for that child's specific needs are included in the accordion file, it's portable so you can take it to doctor appointments, or to parent/teachers meetings.

THE POCKET FOLDER

We use these pocket folders for homework. Each child's their own folder. These are great for kids who have a teacher who sends home packet on a Monday that needs to be completed throughout the week. Also works well for any information that needs to go back to school at some point but not right away.

SCHEDULES

Keep schedules nearby. Especially helpful when kids are at different schools. It's also smart to have bus information posted as well.